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Howlett fitness boost for Munster
ESPN Staff
July 8, 2012
Munster's Doug Howlett braces for impact, Munster v Australia, Thomond Park, Limerick, Ireland, November 16, 2010
Kiwi Doug Howlett missed most of last season with an Achille injury © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Doug Howlett
Teams: Ireland | Munster

Munster have received a boost as they gear up for the new season with the news that winger Doug Howlett has returned to training ahead of schedule.

The Kiwi speedster missed most of last season with an Achilles injury but is expected to feature during Munster's pre-season campaign that will see the Irish province tackle Stade Rochelais, Bristol and London Irish next month.

His timely return will be welcomed by new coach Rob Penney who is expected to link up with the squad in a couple of weeks. Lock Paul O'Connell is also reported to be making steady progress from a knee injury with a view to a return to training at the end of the month.

Dave Foley (shoulder), Damien Varley (ankle), Duncan Williams (hip) and Johne Murphy (ankle) are also set to return for the start of the campaign while Ian Nagle (shoulder), Felix Jones (shoulder) and Troy Smith (knee) are expected back in action towards the end of the autumn.

The squad are into the second week two of their pre-season under the guidance of fitness coach Bryce Cavanagh and coaches Anthony Foley, Ian Costello, Paul McCarthy, and team manager Niall O'Donovan who officially assumed his new role this week.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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